Chocolate and Cherry Cake Recipe is one of my all-time favorite desserts. The rich, velvety chocolate pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart burst of cherries, creating a delightful flavor combination that never fails to impress.
I love how this cake is not only indulgent but also visually stunning. Each slice reveals layers of moist chocolate cake, luscious frosting, and vibrant cherries.
It’s a treat that works for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
In this post, I’ll share my favorite recipe for Chocolate and Cherry Cake, along with tips for making it even more delicious.
Get ready to create a show-stopping dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Cake
You’ll fall in love with this Chocolate and Cherry Cake Recipe for its exquisite combination of flavors and textures.
The rich, moist chocolate cake pairs beautifully with the tart cherries, creating a delightful contrast that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Perfect for celebrations or casual get-togethers, this cake not only looks stunning but also delivers a taste that will leave your guests craving more.
Each bite is a delicious adventure that celebrates the best of both chocolate and fruit!.
How To Prepare Chocolate And Cherry Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Yield: 10 servings
Kitchen Utensils
- Large bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Stand mixer or electric mixer
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240ml) boiling water
- 1 cup (150g) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 cup (150g) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar
- ½ cup (45g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling
1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
2. Cook, stirring gently, until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool while you prepare the cake batter.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Batter
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
4. Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin—this is normal!
5. Gently fold in the halved cherries until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined.
3. Add the vanilla extract and enough heavy cream to achieve your desired frosting consistency. Beat until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cherry filling on top.
2. Add the second layer of cake and frost the top and sides with the chocolate frosting.
3. Garnish with additional cherries if desired.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
1. Slice your delicious Chocolate and Cherry Cake and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Presentation And Garnishing Ideas
For an eye-catching presentation of your Chocolate and Cherry Cake Recipe, consider serving it on a decorative cake stand to elevate its visual appeal.
Garnish each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a few whole cherries for a pop of color. A light dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa powder can add a sophisticated touch.
To enhance the cherry flavor, drizzle some cherry sauce over the plate before placing the cake slice on top.
Adding a sprig of mint not only brightens the presentation but also introduces a fresh aroma. These simple garnishing ideas will make your cake a stunning centerpiece at any gathering!
Variations And Substitutions
1. Flour Alternatives
Use almond flour or gluten-free flour blends instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. This will give the cake a slightly different texture but still keep it delicious.
2. Sugar Substitutes
Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to reduce calories and make the cake lower in glycemic index.
3. Cherry Alternatives
If cherries are out of season, substitute with other fruits like raspberries or strawberries. You can also use frozen cherries; just thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the batter.
4. Dairy-Free Options
For a dairy-free cake, replace the buttermilk with a plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk) mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar. Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter for the frosting.
5. Flavor Enhancements
Add a teaspoon of almond extract or espresso powder to the batter for a richer flavor. You can also incorporate chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Expert Tips For Your Chocolate And Cherry Cake:
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
2. Opt for Quality Chocolate: Choose high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate for richer flavor and color in your cake.
3. Mix Carefully: Avoid overmixing the batter; mix just until combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
4. Chill the Layers: Cool cake layers in the fridge before frosting to make handling easier and prevent sliding.
5. Add Flavorful Fillings: Incorporate cherry preserves or chocolate ganache between layers for added moisture and taste.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate and Cherry Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate and vibrant cherries.
This Chocolate And Cherry Cake Recipe cake not only satisfies sweet cravings but also adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. With its moist layers and creamy frosting, each bite offers a burst of flavor that leaves a lasting impression.
By following the recipe and incorporating some of my expert tips, you can create a stunning masterpiece that’s sure to be a hit with friends and family.
I hope you enjoy baking and sharing this delicious treat as much as I do. Celebrate life’s sweet moments with this irresistible Chocolate and Cherry Cake Recipe —every slice is a reason to indulge!
More Delicious Chocolate Recipes You’ll Love
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My Favourite Chocolate Bar Cake Recipe
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Chocolate And Strawberry Cake – Sweet And Rich
Chocolate And Cherry Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Large bowl
- medium bowl,
- Whisk
- Spatula
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Stand mixer or electric mixer
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups 220g all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups 300g granulated sugar
- ¾ cup 65g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup 240ml whole milk
- ½ cup 120ml vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup 240ml boiling water
- 1 cup 150g fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 cup 150g fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- ¼ cup 50g granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup 230g unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups 440g powdered sugar
- ½ cup 45g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk as needed for consistency
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Cook, stirring gently, until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool while you prepare the cake batter.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well combined.
- Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin—this is normal!
- Gently fold in the halved cherries until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until combined.
- Add the vanilla extract and enough heavy cream to achieve your desired frosting consistency. Beat until light and fluffy.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cherry filling on top.
- Add the second layer of cake and frost the top and sides with the chocolate frosting.
- Garnish with additional cherries if desired.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice your delicious Chocolate and Cherry Cake and serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!